Uzbekistan national team captain Eldor Shomurodov gave inverview to FIFA’s official website about the country’s historic qualification for the FIFA World Cup.

“It is very difficult to describe this feeling in words. Not only we, the players, but the entire nation of Uzbekistan wanted this qualification immensely. After the final result, there was widespread joy, because we all understood how important it is for our people and our fans,” he said.

Shomurodov noted that congratulations came not only from within Uzbekistan, but also from across Central Asia. “We received messages from football fans in other Central Asian countries. I even heard that the President of Kazakhstan congratulated our President. If we perform well at the World Cup, supporters of the Uzbekistan national team will emerge around the world,” he added.

Speaking about the group-stage draw, Shomurodov said the identity of the opponents was not his main concern. “Even before the draw, I knew it was not especially important who we would face. Our objective is to progress from the group; the rest will be decided by fate. We will give everything we have. We represent our country, and that is why we work hard. We want to show the world that Uzbekistan is a strong team,” he said.

He also highlighted the growing international presence of Uzbek footballers. According to Shomurodov, the fact that players from Uzbekistan are now competing for European clubs benefits not only the national team but Uzbek football as a whole.

Reflecting on the past, Shomurodov recalled the disappointment of fans when Uzbekistan failed to qualify for the World Cup during his childhood. “Today, thanks to our achievements and the attention paid by the country’s leadership to sport, particularly football, the attitude of fans has completely changed,” he said.

With Uzbekistan’s participation now confirmed, many citizens are planning to travel to the United States to support the team, Shomurodov added. “Their support in the stands will give us great strength and motivation to reach new heights.”

According to the draw, Uzbekistan has been placed in Group K, where it will face Colombia, Portugal, and one of DR Congo, Jamaica, or New Caledonia. The matches will be played in Mexico City, Houston, and Atlanta.